From Basic to Brilliant: How the Same Essay Evolves Across Bands
IELTS Essay Band 6 to 9 Comparison: Structure, Grammar, and Vocabulary Breakdown.
One of the biggest confusions IELTS students face is:
“What exactly separates a Band 6 essay from a Band 9 one?”
The difference isn’t just “better grammar” or “more ideas.”
It’s a combination of structure, precision, flow, lexical sophistication, and argument control.
In this detailed guide, we’ll analyze four versions of the same essay question — written at Band 6, 7, 8, and 9 levels — to show you exactly what changes as you move up.
🎯 Essay Question
“Some people believe academic subjects should be the main focus in schools, while others think practical skills should be equally taught.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”
🧱 Color Legend
🟩 Thesis | 🟦 Topic Sentence | 🟨 Linking | 🟥 Advanced Vocabulary | 🟧 Grammar Focus
BAND 6 ESSAY
🟩 Some people think schools should only focus on academic subjects because they are important for future jobs. However, others believe practical skills are also needed. In my opinion, both are important, but schools should mainly teach subjects like math and science.
🟦 Many people say academic subjects are more useful for students’ futures.
🟨 This is because jobs usually need knowledge of math, science, and language.
🟥 For example, doctors and engineers cannot work without studying these subjects.
🟧 But this means students who are not good at academics can face problems.
🟦 On the other hand, some people believe practical skills are also necessary.
🟨 For example, students should learn cooking, repairing, and money management.
🟥 These skills help them survive in real life after school.
🟧 However, if schools spend too much time on them, they will have less time for academic learning.
🟩 In conclusion, I think both are important, but schools should focus more on academic subjects.
🧩 Band 6 Commentary
| Aspect | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Task Response | Addresses both sides, but ideas are simple and repetitive. |
| Coherence & Cohesion | Logical but basic; linking words like however and for example used repeatedly. |
| Lexical Resource | Simple vocabulary (good, important, useful). No topic-specific or academic expressions. |
| Grammar | Mostly correct but repetitive sentence structures. Lacks variety. |
| Overall Impression | Understandable but plain. Feels like a school essay rather than academic writing. |
🔑 Band 6 → Band 7 Tip:
Add depth — explain why something is true instead of just listing examples.
BAND 7 ESSAY
🟩 Some people argue that schools should emphasize academic subjects because they directly prepare students for professional careers, while others claim practical skills are equally valuable. I believe schools should give priority to academics but also include hands-on learning.
🟦 Supporters of academic education say that such subjects open the door to high-paying and respected jobs.
🟨 For example, without a strong foundation in mathematics and science, it is impossible to become a doctor or an engineer.
🟥 Furthermore, academic achievements are often the main criteria universities consider when admitting students.
🟧 However, overemphasizing theory can make learning less engaging for some students.
🟦 On the other hand, advocates of practical education argue that these skills help young people become more independent.
🟨 Knowing how to manage money or fix simple household problems is essential for adult life.
🟥 For instance, students who learn basic financial literacy are less likely to fall into debt.
🟧 Nonetheless, too much focus on practical work may reduce the academic competitiveness of schools.
🟩 In conclusion, both academic and practical subjects have their merits, but schools should primarily focus on academic learning while allocating some time for life skills.
🧩 Band 7 Commentary
| Aspect | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Task Response | Fully addresses both sides with clear opinion. |
| Coherence & Cohesion | Logical progression; uses transitions effectively (however, nonetheless). |
| Lexical Resource | Mix of general and semi-academic terms (criteria, foundation, financial literacy). |
| Grammar | More varied structures but some minor errors or awkward phrases remain. |
| Overall Impression | Clear, well-organized essay. Lacks the refinement and complexity of Band 8–9 writing. |
🔑 Band 7 → Band 8 Tip:
Add more analytical depth — use cause/effect reasoning and higher-level connectors like consequently, therefore, or as a result of this.
BAND 8 ESSAY
🟩 It is often argued that schools should primarily teach academic subjects, as these are the key to professional success, whereas others believe practical skills deserve equal attention. While I agree that academic learning builds intellectual capacity, integrating practical education ensures students are prepared for real-world challenges.
🟦 Those who support a traditional academic focus claim that intellectual subjects such as science and mathematics form the foundation of modern careers.
🟨 Academic knowledge not only enables students to pursue higher education but also encourages critical and analytical thinking.
🟥 For instance, the problem-solving skills learned in mathematics can be applied to complex tasks in engineering or business.
🟧 However, this system often overlooks creativity and manual skill development, which are vital in daily life.
🟦 In contrast, proponents of practical education emphasize that real-world competencies make students more adaptable.
🟨 Skills such as cooking, budgeting, and basic technical repair help individuals manage daily responsibilities confidently.
🟥 For example, a student who learns budgeting in school is more likely to develop financial discipline later in life.
🟧 Nevertheless, a complete shift away from academics would weaken students’ theoretical foundations.
🟩 In conclusion, academic education remains essential for intellectual and professional growth, but practical skills must complement it to ensure holistic development.
🧩 Band 8 Commentary
| Aspect | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Task Response | Fully developed argument with balance and explanation. |
| Coherence & Cohesion | Smooth logical flow; advanced linking (while I agree that…, in contrast, nevertheless). |
| Lexical Resource | Strong academic and topic-specific vocabulary (analytical thinking, adaptability, theoretical foundation). |
| Grammar | Complex sentence forms and controlled punctuation. Very few, if any, noticeable errors. |
| Overall Impression | Excellent control and academic tone. Slightly lacks the subtle elegance of Band 9 essays. |
🔑 Band 8 → Band 9 Tip:
Add sophistication — use nuanced phrases, balanced perspectives, and elegant cohesion devices.
BAND 9 ESSAY
🟩 While academic subjects remain the backbone of intellectual development, integrating practical skills into the curriculum equips students with essential tools for life beyond school. Therefore, both forms of education should coexist harmoniously to produce well-rounded individuals.
🟦 Advocates of academic-focused learning contend that disciplines such as mathematics, science, and literature cultivate analytical reasoning and long-term intellectual discipline.
🟨 These subjects form the cornerstone of innovation and economic advancement, as they encourage abstract thinking and problem-solving.
🟥 For example, a student trained in scientific methodology learns to evaluate evidence critically — a skill that transcends professions.
🟧 Nonetheless, when education revolves solely around theory, learners risk becoming detached from practical realities.
🟦 Conversely, proponents of practical education highlight that life-oriented skills foster independence and resilience.
🟨 Knowing how to manage finances, cook, or conduct minor repairs fosters self-reliance and confidence.
🟥 For instance, schools in Finland incorporate life management courses, leading to graduates who excel both academically and socially.
🟧 Therefore, merging practical and theoretical knowledge ensures students are not only employable but also capable of navigating life’s complexities.
🟩 In conclusion, academic and practical education are not opposing forces but complementary pillars of a holistic education system. By blending intellectual rigor with real-life competence, schools can nurture individuals who are both knowledgeable and capable.
🧩 Band 9 Commentary
| Aspect | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Task Response | Fully addresses every part of the question with precision and balance. |
| Coherence & Cohesion | Natural, seamless flow with advanced connectors (conversely, therefore, nonetheless, while). |
| Lexical Resource | Wide range of precise academic vocabulary (analytical reasoning, resilience, holistic education system). |
| Grammar | Flawless control of complex and compound-complex structures. |
| Tone & Style | Mature, elegant, confident — reads like a professional editorial. |
🔑 Band 9 Secret:
It’s not about “fancier words.” It’s about control — controlling tone, logic, and reader engagement from start to finish.
🧭 Final Comparison Table
| Band | Thesis Clarity | Vocabulary | Coherence | Grammar | Overall Tone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Basic, vague | Simple | Limited connectors | Basic tenses | Informal |
| 7 | Clear | Semi-academic | Good transitions | Varied | Slightly formal |
| 8 | Balanced, analytical | Advanced | Smooth cohesion | Accurate | Formal, precise |
| 9 | Sophisticated, elegant | Exceptional | Seamless | Perfect control | Expert-level |
💬 Final Words from GoatGuru 🐐
Every band level is just a layer of refinement.
If you can understand how each sentence serves your thesis and how each idea flows logically, you’re already walking toward Band 9 territory.
Remember:
Clarity is power. Structure is your ticket. Practice is the bridge.